Cristina Nader is a passionate advocate for marginalized students in higher education, particularly first-generation, low-income (FGLI) individuals. As a Chicana and first-generation college graduate, she offers a unique perspective to her work, fueled by personal experience and a commitment to equitable educational environments. Currently a doctoral candidate at Texas A&M University, she holds a Master’s of Public Administration from Rutgers University and a Bachelor of Business Administration from Texas Christian University (TCU).
Cristina’s professional journey includes roles that underscore her dedication to student success. Previously, she served as the Director of TRIO Student Support Services, managing a large grant budget to provide tailored support. As Program Director for The Posse Foundation, she focused on student retention and performance. As an Educational Adviser for the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation, she developed personalized learning plans that resulted in a high persistence rate. Earlier in her career, she was the Student Success and Outreach Coordinator at TCU and volunteered with the U.S. Peace Corps in El Salvador, where she contributed to community development initiatives.
With a strong passion for equity and inclusivity, Cristina aims to implement data-driven strategies that enhance student experiences. She enjoys walking, practicing yoga, and exploring high-intensity interval training in her free time. She is an aspiring anthophile and also enjoys podcasts and audiobooks, constantly seeking new recommendations to expand her circle of knowledge.